It is often difficult to find a healthy balance between taste and nutrition; especially where children are concerned. Many children have a dislike of fresh fruit and vegetables, and it can be a challenge to make sure that they are eating right.
This recipe is vegan, and so does not add milk, egg, or honey ingredients. This is a good recipe to try with children, as it has virtually no risk for bacterial exposure, and it is a good way for them to see how vegetables, and fruit could be combined into something that they would enjoy eating.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces olive or safflower oil
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1 medium apple coarsely grated
- 1 medium carrot coarsely grated
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon flaxseed powder
- 2-3 teaspoons filtered water
- Optional: 1/2 cup soymilk
Baking Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Combine the flaxseed powder with the water in a small bowl, and set aside. Core a washed and unpeeled apple, and clean and peel one carrot, and coarsely grate them in another bowl. This is a task that an older child could do, with some supervision; as it can be tough work for small hands, and there is also the possiblility of getting a cut with the grater.
Combine the sugar, and oil, and mix with a large spoon. Use the oil residue in the measuring cup to oil the muffin tin, if not using paper baking cups. Add the grated carrot, and apple, along with the flaxseed mixture. Add the remaining ingredients, and mix slowly. This recipe will yield about 12 large muffins.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter into each muffin cup, and place in the oven for 25-30 minutes. If adding the soymilk the baking time will be closer to 25 minutes. The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted into a muffin, comes out clean.
Take out the pan, and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Then, insert a dinner knife around the edge of each muffin, and use the knife to gently dislodge each muffin from the pan. Place on a rack to cool, and enjoy.
Some Notes
The addition of flaxseed acts as an egg substitute. It also has some health benefits. Please be aware that some people are allergic to flaxseed, so do not serve them anything containing this ingredient.
The apple will add flavour, and aroma, so that there is no need to add spice. The carrot will add color, and texture. Both have fibre. Using organic apple, carrot, and flour will make the muffins even healthier.The addition of soymilk will give the muffin a smoother look, and greater cohesion. However, it will not be as tasty, nor as fragrant.
A vegan chocolate chip cookie recipe is another good one to make with children.
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